Celtics-Bulls game tomorrow postponed, NBA looks to modify COVID protocols

Per the NBA, the Celtics-Bulls game set for tomorrow will be postponed in addition to tonight’s Mavericks-Pelicans matchup. Chicago had been on a west coast road trip last week with no issues with COVID-related health and safety protocols, so it’s safe to assume that Boston’s roster fell below the required eight players to field the team.

Tomorrow’s postponement marks the second game in a row that the Celtics will have to reschedule. Yesterday, Celtics-Heat was also postponed due to an inconclusive test and contract tracing with Miami. Boston was set to field an eight-man rotation that included Jeff Teague, Marcus Smart, Payton Pritchard, Tremont Waters, Carsen Edwards, Aaron Nesmith, Daniel Theis, and Tacko Fall. At least one of those players is presumably now unavailable.

On Sunday, it was reported that Jayson Tatum tested positive for COVID-19 and due to contact tracing, Jaylen Brown, Javonte Green, and Semi Ojeleye were also put into the 10-14 quarantine. Earlier over the weekend, Robert Williams also tested positive for the coronavirus with Grant Williams and Tristan Thompson put in quarantine because the trio were in a car together. Carsen Edwards was also present, but was excluded because he was wearing a mask. That’s at least seven players currently in the protocol with two out due to injury. Kemba Walker is reportedly close to a return and Romeo Langford is eyeing February as he rehabs from wrist surgery.

The NBA and the Players’ Association will meet later today to modify the health and safety protocols and a special Board of Governors meeting tomorrow. The league has now delayed four total games in the wake of rising COVID cases around the country. Boston’s next game is scheduled for Wednesday against the Magic, the first of a two-game series against Orlando.